Play Like a Champion Today

The one thing that makes the weather bearable during this time of the year is knowing that it’s football season. Football is a lifestyle in the US, whether they are fantasy fanatics, college fans or professional die hards, this; time of year football is everything. Everyone has loyalties to “their” teams and then we have teams that we love to hate.

Every Saturday during my childhood I witnessed my family turn into crazed College football fans. Our team: Notre Dame. Sure, watching the instant replays in the comfort of your own home, in your fuzzy slippers is one thing; but actually making the journey to the University Campus and being in that indescribable atmosphere is another thing. And it’s something that should be done at least once a season.

Every school has it’s traditions that other non-fans don’t know about. Notre Dame is full of them. From the “Play like a Champion Today” sign to the leprechaun that leads the cheer squad, here are a few of the other things that bring ND and their fans great joy.

The Band of the Fighting Irish: From the time they play on the steps and march to the stadium pre- game until they play the alma mater “Notre Dame, Our Mother” the famous band keeps the fan’s spirits high throughout.

Touchdown Jesus, Golden Dome, Sacred Heart Basilica and The Grotto are all places on campus that are important to ND and it’s football team that are must see’s if you ever attend.

 “WE. ARE. N.D”, push ups after each ND touchdown, “Go Irish” kickoff cheer, linking arms and swaying at the end of the game as the band plays. These are just a few of the things that Notre Dame fans know and love when they come to root for the Gold and Blue!  

California Dreamin'

Sand between my toes, the warm sun shining on my bare shoulders, the sound of seagulls squawking around me and smell of salt water in the air. Without a doubt, these things will always put a smile on my face. There is something about being on the West Coast calms my inner self and I cant help but feel like I belong in that atmosphere. Give me a hippie bus, surfboard and a bottle of sunscreen, I'll be a happy camper! 

My favorite part about this region is the constant excitement, there is literally never a dull moment, no matter what time of year. During my short visit I was able to do so much. I was able to....drive along the coast to Santa Barbara, live it up in the Gaslamp Quarter, watch dolphins surf the waves, enjoy a German beer at Oktoberfest, watch the famous Blue Angels preform at an Air Show, horseback ride, attend worship service at my favorite church and walk the beach at night. What a life! Not to mention the types of food SD has to offer, fish tacos AND in-and-out burger. And for those of you that haven't experienced a double double from the famous burger joint: "Go West!"


Aside from the nearly perfect atmosphere, another wonderful part about the Western state is that my Dad resides there. As much as they embarrass us as teenagers or lecture us on how to live our life, we wouldn't be who we are without our parents. Unfortunately, I don't get that daily interaction with my Pops, so our time together is precious. We try to catch up on our lives during our short visits, giving each other unwanted advice or " I told you so's".  But it always ends the same way, with a big strong bear hug, kiss and an "I love you, hope to see you again soon!"